Witnesses, injured recount tragic courthouse shooting

By Sarah Moore

Updated 2:40 pm, Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Photo: Dave Ryan

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This is a crime scene photo, one of many others of all the shell casings that were found around the courthouse, that was introduced as evidence in the trial by the prosecution. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Bartholomew Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

This is a crime scene photo, one of many others of all the shell casings that were found around the courthouse, that was introduced as evidence in the trial by the prosecution. Testimony has begun today in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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This is an aerial photo introduced as evidence in the trial by the prosecution showing the courthouses and where Granger was finally caught. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Bartholomew Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

This is an aerial photo introduced as evidence in the trial by the prosecution showing the courthouses and where Granger was finally caught. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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This is a crime scene photo introduced as evidence by the prosecution Monday, April 22, 2013 in the Bartholomew Granger trial. The photo shows where Minnie Sebolt died.

This is a crime scene photo introduced as evidence by the prosecution Monday, April 22, 2013 in the Bartholomew Granger trial. The photo shows where Minnie Sebolt died.

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This is a crime scene photo showing the missing glass of the employee entrance to the courthouse. This door is to the right of the door where Minnie Sebolt died that was introduced as evidence in the trial by the prosecution. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Bartholomew Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

This is a crime scene photo showing the missing glass of the employee entrance to the courthouse. This door is to the right of the door where Minnie Sebolt died that was introduced as evidence in the trial by ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, left, enters Judge Wortham's courtroom around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning for the start of his trial. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, left, enters Judge Wortham's courtroom around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning for the start of his trial. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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Minnie Ray Sebolt from a photo taken August, 2005 Photo provided by Hartburg Baptist Church

Minnie Ray Sebolt from a photo taken August, 2005 Photo provided by Hartburg Baptist Church

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Paramedics take one of the shooting victims from the Jefferson County Courthouse. Bartholomew Granger allegedly killed one person and injured several others in a shooting spree at the Jefferson County courthouse in downtown Beaumont late Wednesday morning. The shooting happened round 11:20 a.m. and he later was apprehended when police cornered him in a building. Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

Paramedics take one of the shooting victims from the Jefferson County Courthouse. Bartholomew Granger allegedly killed one person and injured several others in a shooting spree at the Jefferson County ... more

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As paramedics work on one of the shooting victims in the parking lot of the Jefferson County Courthouse, a law enforcement official holds her hand. Bartholomew Granger allegedly killed one person and injured several others in a shooting spree at the Jefferson County courthouse in downtown Beaumont late Wednesday morning. The shooting happened round 11:20 a.m. and he later was apprehended when police cornered him in a building. Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

As paramedics work on one of the shooting victims in the parking lot of the Jefferson County Courthouse, a law enforcement official holds her hand. Bartholomew Granger allegedly killed one person and injured ... more

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Bartholomew Granger

Bartholomew Granger

Photo: The Enterprise

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A hostage walks out of RCI after being released by alleged gunman Bartholomew Granger during a police stand off in Beaumont on Wednesday. The event stemmed from a shooting at the Jefferson County Courthouse that left several injured and one person dead.
Photo taken Wednesday, March 13, 2012
Guiseppe Barranco/The Enterprise less

A hostage walks out of RCI after being released by alleged gunman Bartholomew Granger during a police stand off in Beaumont on Wednesday. The event stemmed from a shooting at the Jefferson County Courthouse ... more

Photo: Guiseppe Barranco, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

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Bullet holes in the windshield of the truck allegedly driven by Bartholomew Granger after a shooting at the Jefferson County Courthouse on Wednesday. Police stopped Granger's getaway by opening fire on him at the Milam Street and Park Street intersection.
Photo taken Wednesday, March 13, 2012
Guiseppe Barranco/The Enterprise less

Bullet holes in the windshield of the truck allegedly driven by Bartholomew Granger after a shooting at the Jefferson County Courthouse on Wednesday. Police stopped Granger's getaway by opening fire on him at ... more

Photo: Guiseppe Barranco, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

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A victim who was wounded in the arm during a shooting at the Jefferson County Courthouse Wednesday is assisted by a deputy and a paramedic. Bartholomew Granger, a gunman, open fired wounding several and killing one.
Photo taken Wednesday, March 13, 2012
Guiseppe Barranco/The Enterprise less

A victim who was wounded in the arm during a shooting at the Jefferson County Courthouse Wednesday is assisted by a deputy and a paramedic. Bartholomew Granger, a gunman, open fired wounding several and killing ... more

Photo: Guiseppe Barranco, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

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John Stevens in his chambers.
Guiseppe Barranco/The Enterprise

John Stevens in his chambers.
Guiseppe Barranco/The Enterprise

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These are signs posted outside the courtroom for the media as well as any parents who might be bringing children with them into the courtroom. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

These are signs posted outside the courtroom for the media as well as any parents who might be bringing children with them into the courtroom. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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One of the defendant's attorneys, Sonny Cribbs, left, enters the courtroom. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

One of the defendant's attorneys, Sonny Cribbs, left, enters the courtroom. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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Judge Bob Wortham, center, talks with his bailiff, and others before the defendant was brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

Judge Bob Wortham, center, talks with his bailiff, and others before the defendant was brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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One of the defendant's attorneys, James Makin, left, enters the courtroom. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

One of the defendant's attorneys, James Makin, left, enters the courtroom. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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One of the defendant's attorneys, Sonny Cribbs, right, unloads some of his things onto the table as the defense sets up for the arrival of the defendant. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

One of the defendant's attorneys, Sonny Cribbs, right, unloads some of his things onto the table as the defense sets up for the arrival of the defendant. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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One of the defendant's attorneys, James Makin, center, gets something from his briefcase as local Beaumont media representatives take up the front row waiting to photograph and video tape the arrival off the defendant. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

One of the defendant's attorneys, James Makin, center, gets something from his briefcase as local Beaumont media representatives take up the front row waiting to photograph and video tape the arrival off the ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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One of the defendant's attorneys, Sonny Cribbs, center, talks with a Clint Woods, right, a member of the prosecution team. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

One of the defendant's attorneys, Sonny Cribbs, center, talks with a Clint Woods, right, a member of the prosecution team. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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Pat Knauth, left, a member of the prosecution team, jokes with a member of the media. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

Pat Knauth, left, a member of the prosecution team, jokes with a member of the media. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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One of the attorneys for the prosecution, Ed Shettle, center, gets some of his paperwork in order before the defendant is brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

One of the attorneys for the prosecution, Ed Shettle, center, gets some of his paperwork in order before the defendant is brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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Judge Bob Wortham, left, looks over some paperwork at the bench before the defendant was brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

Judge Bob Wortham, left, looks over some paperwork at the bench before the defendant was brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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One of the defendant's attorneys, Sonny Cribbs, center, talks with a Pat Knauth, right, a member of the prosecution team. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

One of the defendant's attorneys, Sonny Cribbs, center, talks with a Pat Knauth, right, a member of the prosecution team. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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Judge Bob Wortham, left, looks over some paperwork at the bench before the defendant was brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

Judge Bob Wortham, left, looks over some paperwork at the bench before the defendant was brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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One of the attorneys for the prosecution, Ed Shettle, center, gets some of his paperwork in order before the defendant is brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

One of the attorneys for the prosecution, Ed Shettle, center, gets some of his paperwork in order before the defendant is brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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Clint Woods, right, a member of the prosecution team, goes over some notes before the defendant was brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

Clint Woods, right, a member of the prosecution team, goes over some notes before the defendant was brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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The defendant, Bartholomew Granger enter Judge Wortham's courtroom around 8:30 a.m. Monday morning for the start of his trial.Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger enter Judge Wortham's courtroom around 8:30 a.m. Monday morning for the start of his trial.Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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While waiting for the judge, who was asking the media with cameras to please leave the courtroom, James Makin, one of the defendant's attorneys, turns around to watch. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

While waiting for the judge, who was asking the media with cameras to please leave the courtroom, James Makin, one of the defendant's attorneys, turns around to watch. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in ... more

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The two defense attorneys, Sonny Cribbs on the left, and James Makin, on the right, wait for the judge to clear the courtroom of media representatives with cameras, who were allowed to photograph the defendant before the jury came in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The two defense attorneys, Sonny Cribbs on the left, and James Makin, on the right, wait for the judge to clear the courtroom of media representatives with cameras, who were allowed to photograph the defendant ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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A Jefferson County Sheriff's deputy stands close to the defense table as the defendant, Bartholomew Granger, watches the judge. His attorney James Makin, is on the right and Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

A Jefferson County Sheriff's deputy stands close to the defense table as the defendant, Bartholomew Granger, watches the judge. His attorney James Makin, is on the right and Sonny Cribbs is on his left. ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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Defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, watches the judge. His attorney James Makin, is on the right and Sonny Cribbs, the other attorney, is on his left. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

Defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, watches the judge. His attorney James Makin, is on the right and Sonny Cribbs, the other attorney, is on his left. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated ... more

Image 40 of 51

After asking everyone to turn of their cell phones, Judge Bob Wortham, left, double checks his own while he was talking with prosecuting attorney Ed Shettle, at the bench before the defendant was brought in. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

After asking everyone to turn of their cell phones, Judge Bob Wortham, left, double checks his own while he was talking with prosecuting attorney Ed Shettle, at the bench before the defendant was brought in. ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

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The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

Image 42 of 51

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

Image 43 of 51

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The defendant, Bartholomew Granger, center, speaks to his attorney James Makin, right, around 8:50 a.m. Monday morning before the start of his trial. Sonny Cribbs is on his left. Testimony has begun today in ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

Image 44 of 51

A witness called to testify today, Texas Ranger Brent Davis, leaves the front entrance of the courthouse. He did not speak with the media. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Bartholomew Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

A witness called to testify today, Texas Ranger Brent Davis, leaves the front entrance of the courthouse. He did not speak with the media. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

Image 45 of 51

This is a frame grab from the surveillance video that was taken from the back of the police station showing police cars following Granger's truck back down Pearl Street towards the courthouse after coming out of the parking lot in the back ground. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Bartholomew Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

This is a frame grab from the surveillance video that was taken from the back of the police station showing police cars following Granger's truck back down Pearl Street towards the courthouse after coming out ... more

Image 46 of 51

This is a frame grab from the surveillance video that was taken from the back of the police station showing Granger's truck heading back down Pearl Street towards the courthouse after coming out of the parking lot in the back ground. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Bartholomew Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

This is a frame grab from the surveillance video that was taken from the back of the police station showing Granger's truck heading back down Pearl Street towards the courthouse after coming out of the parking ... more

Image 47 of 51

The media gathers in the courtroom to try and videotape the surveillance video that was taken from the back of the police station.Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Bartholomew Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

The media gathers in the courtroom to try and videotape the surveillance video that was taken from the back of the police station.Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

Image 48 of 51

This is an aerial photo introduced as evidence in the trial by the prosecution showing the courthouses. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Bartholomew Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

This is an aerial photo introduced as evidence in the trial by the prosecution showing the courthouses. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Bartholomew Granger, who ... more

Image 49 of 51

This is a crime scene photo one one of the cars that was hit by gunfire in the parking lot across from the courthouse, that was introduced as evidence in the trial by the prosecution. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Bartholomew Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

This is a crime scene photo one one of the cars that was hit by gunfire in the parking lot across from the courthouse, that was introduced as evidence in the trial by the prosecution. Testimony has begun today ... more

Photo: Dave Ryan

Image 50 of 51

This is a frame grab from the surveillance video that was taken from the back of the police station showing Granger's truck heading back down Pearl Street towards the courthouse after coming out of the parking lot in the back ground. Testimony has begun today in Galveston in the relocated capital murder trial of Bartholomew Granger, who is on trial in the shooting death of Minnie Ray Sebolt, a 79-year-old Deweyville resident who was gunned down March 14, 2012, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. According to his indictment, Granger was trying to shoot a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in which he was the defendant and accidentally hit Sebolt. The crime is capital murder because Sebolt was killed in the commission of another crime, retaliation against a witness, according to the prosecution.
Dave Ryan/The Enterprise less

This is a frame grab from the surveillance video that was taken from the back of the police station showing Granger's truck heading back down Pearl Street towards the courthouse after coming out of the parking ... more

First on the stand this morning was William Anderson. Anderson, testifying for the prosecution, said he parked directly behind Granger's beige pickup truck in the Jefferson County Courthouse parking lot on March 14, 2012.

Anderson said he saw Granger get out of the truck and shoot three women. One of the women fell and the others ran, he said. Anderson testified that Granger kept firing.

Anderson told the jury that he was "scared to death" and that if he'd had a gun, he would have shot Granger.

Tony Barker, a 252nd Court bailiff, testified after Anderson. Barker said he saw 79-year-old Minnie Ray Sebolt fall after she was fatally shot.

Barker said he watched as Granger got back in his truck and then ran over a woman.

According to court documents, Granger's daughter, Samantha Jackson, was shot three times and then run over in the courthouse parking lot.

Officer Tamara Hamilton testified this afternoon that she ran towards Samantha after the young woman was shot.

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Deputy Donald Hays, who was on duty the day of the shooting, said he saw glass falling as bullets whizzed by the courthouse entrance. Hays said he ran outside and saw Sebolt lying a pool of blood.

An emotional Vicki Hollingsworth testified after Hays. Hollingsworth was with Sebolt on the day of the shooting and wept on the stand as she identified her friend in a crime scene photo.

Hollingsworth told the jury that she heard gunfire and turned behind her. She said she saw a man standing in the street firing a gun. She tried to get Sebolt down on the ground, Hollingsworth testified.

Leslie King told jurors she was walking down Pearl Street towards the courthouse when she first heard the gunshots. King said she saw a man crouched down with a gun. At first, King said she thought he was doing some sort of reenactment.

When King realized the gunfire was real, she said she tried to run inside the courthouse but was shot in the hand.

King testified that she collided with another woman and fell behind a planter at the courthouse entrance, where she hid.

The other woman kicked off her shoes and ran inside the courthouse.

According to court documents, the other woman was Claudia Jackson, a witness in Granger's sexual assault of a child trial and Samantha Jackson's mother.

Granger's estranged wife, Rebecca Richard Granger, testified that she was walking into the courthouse with two other witnesses when the shooting began.

Rebecca Granger said she ran when she realized Bartholomew Granger was running toward the group with a riffle.

She was not injured during the shooting.

COVERAGE FROM DAY 1:

A shooting spree last year at the Jefferson County Courthouse was a "calculated, well thought out plan" intended to kill a man's daughter and her mother, prosecutor Ed Shettle said during opening remarks Monday in the Bartholomew Granger capital murder trial.

The March 14, 2012, shooting - which killed one and injured three others - was documented on a series of surveillance cameras in and around the Beaumont courthouse.

One clip entered into evidence Monday stood out from the others, its footage showing the last moments of Minnie Ray Sebolt's life.

The 79-year-old Deweyville woman had just approached the courthouse doors with two other people and was stepping into the revolving door, when something made the other two turn and look behind them.

Sebolt then turned, too. Seconds later, the other two had hit the ground. Sebolt appeared to hesitate and reached for the door handle. Then she crumpled to the ground.

The soundless image gave little hint of the terror of the moment.

The first video played for jurors Monday showed Granger arriving at the courthouse sometime before 7:30 a.m., testified Michael Kirkpatrick of the Jefferson County District Attorney's office.

The video showed an indistinct figure leave a pickup truck and walk up to the main entrance. When he couldn't get in at that hour – only employees have access so early – the man then went back to the vehicle, which he then moved to be closer to the exit.

One of few vehicles parked in the lot at that hour, the man sat and waited about four hours, getting out of the vehicle once or twice.

Finally, just before the deadly scene at the courthouse doors, he leapt from the pickup and ran toward the street, vanishing out of the frame.

Other video, taken from the back of the downtown Beaumont police station, showed a slew of officers racing down Pearl Street toward the courthouse at the sound of gunfire.

Chief James Singletary was recognizable in the footage and could be seen jumping over a concrete barrier and running across a set of railroad tracks before taking cover behind a raised rail crossing arm as the pickup barreled past.

In his opening statement, Prosecutor Ed Shettle told jurors that Granger, 42, gunned down Sebolt while firing at Claudia Jackson, the mother of one of his children and a witness in an aggravated sexual assault trial in Criminal District Court in which he was the defendant.

Granger had already shot his daughter, Samantha Granger, multiple times, and minutes later ran her over with his pickup as he fled police, Shettle said.

After officers disabled his vehicle with a barrage of bullets, he ran into a nearby business, RCI, taking employees there hostage until one of them overpowered him.

Granger had been shot, but his wounds were relatively minor, Shettle said.

Monday's witnesses began to put together the pieces in a story that will unfold over the next two weeks.

The first witness, Criminal District Court Judge John Stevens, told the jury he had been in the midst of a hearing when the shooting occurred.

Stevens had just called a recess in Granger's sexual assault of a child trial a few moments earlier so he could hear other cases.

Stevens said he excused a defendant, who went out the courtroom's back door. He'd barely had time to move onto the next issue when the defendant ran back in yelling, "They are shooting down there!"

Bailiffs moved quickly to secure the courtroom, and Stevens told everyone in the courtroom to stay where they were.

Stevens went back into his third-floor chambers, fetched a gun he had there and ventured downstairs.

He found a scene of chaos, with women yelling and running away from the front doors.

Stevens said he saw one woman with blood on her chin, and asked her if she'd been shot.

She said no, she'd tripped and fallen in the panic.

Stevens turned to County Clerk Carolyn Guidry and asked if she had a first aid kit.

"I have a woman in my office that's been shot!" Guidry responded.

When Stevens went to her office, he saw a woman lying on her stomach with a gunshot wound to her buttock.